By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
Cross River State Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and the welfare of medical professionals.
Odey spoke on Tuesday when he received a delegation of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), led by its outgoing National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, at the Government House in Calabar.
He said the administration of Governor Bassey Otu would continue to strengthen healthcare institutions, improve conditions of service and create a conducive environment for medical professionals to practise in the state.
According to him, the government was also taking measures to address factors contributing to the migration of doctors and other health professionals from the state.
Odey said Cross River remained committed to retaining skilled medical personnel while improving access to healthcare for residents.
He thanked NARD for choosing Calabar to host its 46th Annual General Meeting, saying the gathering would provide an opportunity for professional exchange and discussions on healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Earlier, Suleiman commended the state government for what he described as improvements in the welfare of health workers and interventions in the healthcare sector.
He cited the reported 100 per cent implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), upgrading of Primary Healthcare Centres and strengthening of the State Hospital Management Board.
Suleiman also mentioned the enactment of the Medical Quackery Prohibition Law, establishment of the Drug Management Agency, extension of the retirement age for health workers to 65 and the lifting of the employment embargo, including recruitment of medical specialists.
He said the measures had implications for the availability and retention of healthcare personnel in the state.
Suleiman disclosed that the delegation’s visit was part of activities ahead of NARD’s 46th Annual General Meeting and the inauguration of its incoming national president, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday in Calabar, while Idoko and members of his executive are expected to be inaugurated on Friday.
